Have you got what it takes to be a Donegal/Derry Viper? 

American Football Team the Donegal/Derry Vipers have announced the return of their youth team with tryouts taking place this coming weekend. 

Despite the senior side not having as good a season as they would have liked; the attention will now turn to the youth team in the coming weeks.

Youth team training will begin this Saturday, June 29th from 10am at the Vale Centre, Greysteel the newfound home of the Vipers. The program will run through October with matches beginning in early September. 

The Head Coach of the Youth Team, Niall Lyons explained: “This will be my fourth year coaching youth football. 

“American Football has a position for all shapes and sizes and seeing a new youth player find their place on the team will never get old. 

“Each year with new players, watching the team gel and begin to execute together, hitting our stride and playing the blitzes. I love this time of year!”

Lyons explains the Vipers senior squad have been struggling with recruitment over the past few seasons which has placed such an importance on the development of the youth side. 

“Youth development is and will always be a major part of any sports club and the Vipers are no different. 

“We know having a good youth plan in place will only help keep the club growing. We only have our youth team for four years now but we are starting to see the fruits of our labour with three players making the step up to the senior team this year.

So, what’s required for Youth American Football? The Vipers only require members to bring a gumshield, football boots and a bottle of water. 

Helmets and shoulder pads will be supplied by the club. Training will run every Saturday for the foreseeable future.

If you are interested in attending the youth try-outs this Saturday, please message either the Facebook or Instagram of the Donegal/Derry Vipers both of which can be found @donegalderryvipers.